As the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade brings together marching bands from across the U.S. next week, we explore the music and culture surrounding this uniquely American tradition. Joining us is Kristen Laine, a journalist who chronicled a year spent with an elite high school marching band in the book "American Band: Music, Dreams, and Coming of Age in the Heartland." Also with us is Dr. Richard Good, assistant director of bands at Auburn University. He'll lead the Macy’s Great American Marching Band next week.

Soundcheck blog: John Schaefer on putting the "i" in "Ohio"